With heavy hearts, we remember and celebrate the life of James Patrick Burns of New Waterford who passed away at the age of 91 on Good Friday, April 3rd, 2026 at Taigh Na Mara Nursing Home, Glace Bay.

Born in Scotchtown, he was the beloved son of the late James Patrick Burns and Charlotte “Toots” (Nearing) Burns.

Jim was a devoted husband, father, and proud Canadian soldier whose strength, resilience, and quiet kindness left a lasting mark on everyone who knew him. He was a Veteran of the Korean War and a member of the Black Watch Association.

Jim joined the Canadian Army in 1952 and served 32 years with pride, including his two years in Korea as a Wireless Radio Operator. His years of service took him across Canada and overseas, but no matter where life brought him, his heart was always with his family.

On April 14, 1956, he married the love of his life, Dolena (McPhee) Burns, and together they built a strong, loving family. Jim was a proud father to eight children, and his legacy continued to grow through 20 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren—all of whom he cherished deeply. He is also survived by a younger brother.

Besides his parents and wife, Jim was predeceased by his brothers and sisters as well as his great-great grandchild, Parker Anthony.

Jim had a lifelong passion for sports, especially boxing, where his determination earned him multiple championships. Whether in the ring, on the field, or later as a long-distance runner, he gave everything he had. He completed over 20 marathons, including the Boston Marathon, and in one of his proudest accomplishments, ran across Canada to raise awareness for Alzheimer’s.

He believed in hard work, discipline, and staying true to yourself—values he lived every day and passed on to those around him. Jim will be remembered for his strength, his steady presence, and the deep love he had for his family. He will be deeply missed and forever loved.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, April 7th from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. in V.J. McGillivray Funeral Home, 380 Smith Street, New Waterford.

The funeral mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, April 8th at 10 a.m. in The Parish Church of St. Leonard, Mt. Carmel Avenue, New Waterford with Fr. Obike presiding. With weather permitting interment will take place in Mt. Carmel Cemetery. All are invited to join the family at RCL, Branch 15, New Waterford for a reception.

As an expression of sympathy for Jim, memorial donations in his memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Research or Association.

On line condolences to the family can be expressed at: www.vjmcgillivray.ca